TDY: Prep Like a Pro

If there is one thing that spouses and families prepare for, it's deployments. While these don't happen all the time, we know how big of an adjustment it is to live without your spouse for an extended period of time. And while deployments are hard, there is another aspect of military life that happens pretty often and is just as stressful. That is, temporary duty, or TDY. 

While a TDY is shorter than a deployment, the time apart can be surprisingly difficult. Your daily routine is interrupted and your life has to adjust, even if it is for just a few weeks. Luckily, there are some ways to prep for a TDY and handle it like a pro! 

Make a plan, stay busy and make a date. 

Make a Plan: With your spouse being gone, it can be more difficult to do things such as cook meals. One way that you can prep for a TDY is to meal plan. In the weeks leading up to the trip, make freezer meals that can be heated quickly and don't require much work. It is also important to stock up on things such as sides, snacks, and meats to avoid making numerous trips to the grocery store! 

Stay Busy: If your spouse is gone during the school year, you'll likely be busy helping children with homework.  On the weekends, plan trips to local places such as zoos, aquariums, or an amusement park. It can be a fun time for both you and your children while the service member is away. If the weather isn't the best, check for things to do inside such as a trampoline park. Staying home can be fun, too! Spend an afternoon making a "welcome home" gift or doing arts and crafts. Not a parent? That's okay! Take your pet to the park, go for a hike, spend a day shopping, read a new book. The choices are endless, but it's important to stay busy!

Make a Date: A play date, that is! Chances are, you will know someone who's spouse is leaving who has children. Plan a play date with them! Not only is this good for you to interact with others, but your children will have fun playing with their friends or making new ones! If you don't have children, plan a girls night out or a weekend for the boys! It is important to surround yourself with others, especially those who are going through the same thing as you. 

TDYs are a big part of the military lifestyle and it can happen at any time. With a little planning, you can prepare for the TDY like a pro! Remember, make a plan, stay busy, and make a date!